Laguna Beach City Council Study Session - April 28, 2026

April 28, 2026

Executive Summary

The Laguna Beach City Council held a meeting on April 28, 2026, with the primary focus on the controversial removal of nine eucalyptus trees from the Forest Avenue promenade project. City Manager Dave Kiff presented extensive documentation explaining the decision-making process, including two independent arborist reports that identified significant safety hazards, insurance liability concerns from the joint powers authority CEPA, and a precedent case involving a $28 million settlement for a tree-related fatality. The trees were removed in the middle of the night on April 21, 2026, following the second arborist report confirmation, which drew significant public criticism about the lack of advance notice despite the safety rationale. The Council approved a revised tree replacement plan that will add 25 new trees for a total of 33 trees (versus the original 24), including Eucalyptus polyanthemus and southern live oak (Quercus virginiana) species with enhanced planting systems including Silva cells for improved root development. Public comment was deeply divided, with some residents supporting the safety-focused decision while others criticized the process and lack of community engage

Key Decisions

- Adopted the revised resolution for Appeal A after the appellant and applicant reached a settlement agreement - Continued the public hearing for adoption of the master fee schedule to May 12, 2026 - Received and filed the staff report on the Forest Avenue promenade tree removal (informational item, no formal vote) - Approved the consent calendar items 1-4, 6-7, 9-11, and 13-14 including minutes, financial reports, and routine administrative matters - Approved amended Municipal Code Chapter 3.24 regarding financial guidelines and quarterly financial reporting (item 5) - Approved the Clean Lagu